Acute thrombectomy for saddle pulmonary embolus: Case presentation and review of management

Pulmonary embolism is the third leading cause of cardiovascular death after myocardial infarction and stroke [1,2,4,5]. Anticoagulation is the primary choice of treatment for the majority of patients presenting with acute pulmonary embolism [2,4]. However, a greater risk of mortality in patients with right ventricular (RV) dysfunction may open the door to more aggressive treatment modalities [2]. We present the case of a patient who was diagnosed with a post-operative saddle pulmonary embolus that failed initial treatment with anticoagulation and required emergency thrombectomy to prevent mortality. A brief overview of treatment options is highlighted.